Problems in prisons worldwide, with a particular focus on Russia

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Criminology

Background:

• A historical and persistent link exists between correctional facilities and disease transmission.
• Prisons globally report high incidences of infectious diseases, including hepatitis, HIV, and tuberculosis (TB).
• Tuberculosis remains a leading cause of mortality within carceral settings, exacerbated by overcrowding and inadequate medical care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the significant public health challenges posed by disease within prisons.
• To advocate for reforms in prison healthcare systems.
• To propose solutions for mitigating disease spread in correctional facilities.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on prison health and disease prevalence.
• Analysis of factors contributing to high infection rates in carceral environments.
• Examination of the conflict between public health priorities and prison administration objectives.

Main Results:

• Overcrowding, poor sanitation, and insufficient treatment contribute significantly to TB mortality in prisons.
• Divergent priorities among prisoners, public health officials, prison administrators, and prosecutors impede effective health interventions.
• Current prison healthcare systems are often compromised by their administrative structures.

Conclusions:

• Prison healthcare services should operate independently from prison administration, reporting directly to national public health authorities.
• Alternative strategies to incarceration are necessary in countries with high imprisonment rates to safeguard public health.
• Reforming prison healthcare structures is crucial for improving health outcomes for incarcerated populations and the general community.